2.3 - Recent developments in half-Heusler thermoelectric materials

Abstract

This decade has seen many important advances in the field of half-Heusler thermoelectrics, including the discovery of new high-ZT materials and significant progress in established compositions. This has resulted from improved preparation, effective use of nanostructuring, and adaptation of band structure engineering concepts. A range of possible n- and p-types is now available with peak power factors, S2σ≥5–6mWm−1K−2, and figures of merit, ZT≥1. This outstanding performance, combined with elemental abundance, good mechanical properties and temperature stability, make these materials one of the main candidates for commercial exploitation. This chapter provides an overview of the current major research directions in half-Heusler thermoelectrics for use at high temperatures.